I recently had the chance to visit the new Inari Sukiyaki location at SM Aura BGC, and I wanted to share my experience in detail. As someone who truly appreciates good food, I was excited to try their offerings, especially since I had heard great things about their wagyu dishes.
First Impressions
Walking into the restaurant, I immediately felt a warm, welcoming vibe. The décor was simple yet inviting, setting the stage for a relaxed dining experience. It wasn’t overly fancy or pretentious—it just felt like a place where food lovers could enjoy honest, well-prepared dishes.
My Sukiyaki Adventure
Being a huge fan of wagyu, I couldn’t wait to dive into what they had to offer. I decided to sample the Omi A5 Wagyu and compared it against the Australian Striploin to compare the quality, taste and experience of both dishes.
Omi A5 Wagyu (₱1895)
I went for the Omi A5 Wagyu, the priciest dish on the menu, because I believe that sometimes it’s worth treating yourself to something special. And honestly, it did not disappoint. Every bite was a revelation—so tender and bursting with a rich, deep umami flavor. Even though it was a splurge, the quality and taste made it feel like a memorable indulgence.
Australian Striploin (₱445)
On a more budget-friendly note, I also tried the Australian Striploin. Surprisingly, it held its own in terms of flavor. It was a pleasant surprise to find that even the more affordable option delivered that wonderful umami punch. This dish proved that you don’t always need to spend a fortune to enjoy top-notch quality.
Open Kitchen & Sukiyaki Bar Experience
One of the coolest aspects of Inari Sukiyaki is its open kitchen concept. You get to see the chefs in action, cooking right in front of you. This live cooking setup not only adds a fun, interactive element to the meal but also builds confidence in the freshness and care that goes into every dish. The sukiyaki bar format makes you a part of the culinary experience, watching each ingredient transform into a mouthwatering dish.
For the Filipino palate, known for its love of bold and umami-rich flavors, this setup works exceptionally well. The rich, savory notes of the dishes hit just the right spot, making the experience both engaging and satisfying.
The Overall Vibe
What really made the experience stand out was the atmosphere. Inari Sukiyaki isn’t trying too hard to be overly chic. Instead, it focuses on what matters most: good food served in a comfortable setting. I felt right at home, whether I was enjoying a quiet meal alone or with friends. It’s the kind of spot where you can easily chat with fellow food enthusiasts or just soak in the good vibes while savoring each bite.
A Few Extra Thoughts
- Authenticity: There’s something refreshing about a restaurant that stays true to its roots. Inari Sukiyaki’s approach to preparing and serving traditional Japanese dishes feels both genuine and unforced.
- Value for Money: Even though the Omi A5 Wagyu is a luxury item, the Australian Wagyu shows that quality can come at different price points. This balance is perfect for diners with varying budgets.
- Personal Connection: I appreciated the personal touch the staff brought to the experience. It wasn’t just about the food—it was about creating a memorable, shared experience for everyone who walked in.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in or around SM Aura BGC and have a soft spot for Japanese cuisine, I highly recommend giving Inari Sukiyaki a try. Whether you decide to splurge on the luxurious Omi A5 Wagyu or opt for the delightful Australian Wagyu, you’re in for a treat. The open kitchen and sukiyaki bar setup adds a fun, interactive twist that perfectly complements the rich, umami flavors—making it a must-visit for anyone who loves good food.
Happy eating!
